Exercise and Pregnancy

It’s a new year and many people set fitness and health as a new year resolution, but is that safe if you are pregnant? Overall, exercise is most definitely safe during pregnancy. As long as it is comfortable and there are no health conditions suggesting otherwise, your healthcare provider will most likely tell you to continue your regular exercise routine.

What are the benefits of exercise during pregnancy?

Regular activity during pregnancy helps you keep fit during the pregnancy and may improve your ability to cope with labor. Furthermore, it will make it easier for you to get back in shape after you give birth. Other benefits of exercise during pregnancy include:

Helps reduce backaches, constipation, bloating, and swelling

May help, prevent, or treat gestational diabetes

Increase your energy

Improves mood

Improves posture

Helps you sleep better

What types of activity are suggested during pregnancy?

If you participated in regular exercise activity prior to your pregnancy, it is probably fine for you to continue the same activity during your pregnancy. However, exercising during pregnancy should not be motivated by weight loss and you should not try to increase the rigor of you exercise during pregnancy.

The safest and most productive activities include swimming, walking, indoor stationary cycling, step or elliptical machines, and low-impact aerobics. As a general rule, pregnant women should stay away from activities that require holding your breath, contact sports, activities where falling is likely, and activities that require extensive jumping or bouncing.

Basic Exercise Guidelines

Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothes as well as a good support bra

Choose shoes that are designed for the type of exercise that you do to prevent injury

Exercise on a flat, level surface

Consume enough calories to support the needs of your pregnancy and your exercise

Finish eating at least one hour before exercising

Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout

Never exercise to the point of exhaustion

Although it is most likely safe for you to continue your exercise routine during pregnancy, you should still consult with your healthcare provider. If you are expecting or plan on expecting and are in need of a healthcare provider, contact us today at (615) 690-6600.